It was nice when the airlines were compsensating TAs for airline travel. I felt that the service has gone down hill since, and in order to get the great deals, you've got to do it yourself. So getting skilled on Internet comparisons, phoning the airlines.

I do most of the travel research online and have almost always made my bookings as a result of the research.. either by phone or internet completions.

For Europe, Egypt or China tours.. I'm going to hook up with a TA who knows the reputable tour companies.